August 2018
This special edition of The Branch reflects on the MSH Awards which celebrates the work of our accommodation providers and local residents over the past year.
MSH Awards The end of another year calls for a time to reflect and to celebrate the achievements of the past year. Welcoming landlords and residents to Manchester Student Homes, we were proud to once again host our annual awards presentation to recognise the accomplishments of our accredited accommodation providers and members of the local community who strive to make our area a better place to live and work. We thank everyone who joined us for our joyous afternoon of celebration and hope to build on this year’s success over the course of the next year.
A Tribute to Peter Bowers Dr Peter Bowers was an invaluable member of the local community who continuously strove to improve our area for the benefit of its residents. We recognised Peter as a dear friend and his championing for community cohesion influences much of the work we do here at MSH. We award Peter for his service to our community and are committed to continuing his lasting legacy. We thank Peter’s family for joining our celebrations. It was a privilege to honour Peter and to work with him over the years.
‘He is a great neighbour to many local people!’ Tommy Walsh was awarded the Good Neighbours Community Award for his ongoing commitment to our local area. Having been a resident in the Old Moat area of Withington for many years and an active member of the local community, Tommy arranges and supports many age friendly activities such as coffee mornings and get togethers. Tommy is an asset to our local community and successfully campaigned for a bus shelter and seats to be installed on Copson Street so that older people can stay dry whilst waiting for the 179 bus after visiting Withington Village.
‘Amanda is a credit and a great example to our community!’ Amanda Bergstrom does so much for the local area. She regularly does litter picks and always welcomes students moving into the nearby houses. Amanda was key in the development of the alley way planters between Braemar and Brailsford Roads. Amanda and her dog, Sprout, are always out and about and it was to them both that we award our Good Neighbours Community Award. Amanda in turn thanked fellow community members who join the litter picks and the students who readily take up opportunities to help.
Manchester Student Homes is a free, university-run housing service for students. Based in Fallowfield, MSH runs a landlord accreditation scheme and can offer support to students in relation to property searches, providing housing advice and contract checking. MSH also works with students, the community and partner agencies to identify issues in off campus areas.
‘Amazing with communication and such a helpful guy!’ The volume of appraisal for Bernard Sampson is testament to his outstanding service. It gives us great pleasure to award him ‘Landlord of the Year’ (10 Properties or Less). Bernard is recognised by his tenants for his ready communication, quick action and the use of modern technology throughout his properties. Bernard is a credit to Manchester Student Homes and a leading example to landlords. Bernard also sits on our Neighbourhood Planning Forum, a group comprising of residents, local businesses, University and Council representatives, in his role as Landlord.
‘10/10 would recommend, and have done so!’ We are elated to present Floorspace with our ‘Landlord of the Year’ (10 Properties or More) Award. Consistency of practice leads to an excellent and reliable service which is highly attested throughout their tenant recommendations. Floorspace offer friendly and helpful assistance and fix repairs in a timely manner. Tenants are happy with their housewarming gifts and great value for money accommodation. Floorspace are also welcomed members of our Neighbourhood Planning Forum for their outstanding leading practice in property management.
‘Its not just a hall, but a family!’ We are delighted to recognise the fantastic work and commitment of Coniston Hall of Residence for Women that has once again been presented with our ‘Private Hall of the Year’ award. Its unique service as a single sex and catered hall is much loved by its residents that praise its warm, homely atmosphere and the staff that go above and beyond for its residents. The MSH Awards are a wonderful time of year as we come together to celebrate the amazing contributions of our providers and local residents. Cooper Healey Manager of Manchester Student Homes
Meet Niamh! Niamh is our new University of Manchester Community Cohesion Graduate Intern. What are you going to bring to the role? I have an excellent grasp on the importance of this role within the local area. I am keen to readily tackle some of the key issues faced as well as building student-resident relations for the benefit our of community. Tell us about your experience in the local community. Having lived in Fallowfield for the duration of my time at University and to now work locally it has become home. What advice would you give to students in the local community? My key piece of advice is be mindful! Get to know your neighbours and seize any opportunity to get involved. You can contact Niamh on: niamh.hayden@manchester.ac.uk or 0161 275 7756.